412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGeKDQCAGui
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxPCh9nSHy
The next day, Jessy doesn't show up to school all day, nor the next day. I'm worried to death for him. Also at the end of class, I will question Amy in order to obtain his address. She gives a little smile which immediately makes me think that she is going to rush to find Chad and tell him but, honestly, I don't care. At this moment, I don't care about my reputation, all that matters is this boy who has already indelibly marked my life and for whom I worry so much. I have to struggle for a little while and make up a crazy story, but in the end, I leave the school with the coordinates in my pocket. Immediately, I went to his house. He lives in an old two story house which has retained its incredible charm, despite the renovation work it has undergone. The paint, a light yellow, was redone recently. It’s just the kind of well kept house my dad likes. This thought makes me smile. A covered terrace, where a bench and two armchairs have been installed, shelters the entrance to the house. I climb the three steps and ring the bell. I don't have to wait long before the door opens for Jessy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEL2yx35Fb
— I’m not in the mood to worry, he told me point blank.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSiRkvVi0eu
He looks tired, preoccupied. Despite his obvious bad mood, I'm happy to see him. These last two days without seeing him seemed like an eternity. His mother comes up behind him. I can only glimpse it briefly.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO8oMrU15Vd
— It’s for me, mom, he tells her.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7kIKdQHFF
Understanding that he doesn't want to talk to me in front of her, I decide to play on it and, leaning towards him, I whisper to him : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcgaUKx46Ap
— I'll stay until we've talked, and it's too bad if your mother asks me what I want.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzXEss6FRty
His green eyes stare at me, trying to see if I'm bluffing or not, finally, he gives in.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkKCyyedHky
— Very well, I’m coming.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuW7ynv5VZS
He grabs a denim jacket before following me down the street.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEAgCJI5p1C
We walk aimlessly, following the roads that pass before us in complete silence. I don't know how to start the discussion, I'm afraid of offending him, or of upsetting him if I question him too much.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCzoX1alwe
— So ? You wanted to talk to me, go ahead ! He says in a bad mood, as we arrive near an abandoned factory.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FcVQCtBvY
Intimidated, as always by his presence at my side, I take it upon myself to get started : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNg6gHA3a6
— You haven't come to school for the last two days...412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡax9oc4CzIW
— Oh yes, you noticed, well done ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyy541qtVVS
— Don’t be sarcastic, please. But you let me down for the presentation ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVyckDGGOoj
— Oh, and you probably want an apology ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyGqzmPgB7d
— No, I don't care about this duty.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwKgPOJPZmu
I use a calm tone so as not to annoy him further.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPty1ONKXur
— Why did you come to see me ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXSv8JaIApg
He stops walking.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYKKOxSbB7Z
— I was worried about you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoofyqTqriS
— Well then ! Instead, admit that you want details so you can tell your friends everything afterwards ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLGPdFnXtgM
— I don't plan to tell anyone about it.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mwbP4gQN0
He examines me for a long moment, seeming to search deep in my eyes if he can trust me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCSgiO8NmO6
— How long have you been HIV positive ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡupSw2wSCPm
— It's been about a year now.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhIwbxl7ep
— And how did you catch it ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12NuvVB8dB
— One evening at a friend’s party, I met a girl…412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Vz5Dtpa7R
— And you slept together ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡALGTimqsRg
— No, we watched cartoons ! He said, really angry.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQD3lpjGBuB
— She didn’t tell you she was HIV positive ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGPIZRFoDFx
— She didn't know at the time... A doctor called my mother a few weeks later, Haley had taken a test which came back positive. She had informed the doctor that I was one of her partners. I had to go get tested myself and that’s how I learned that she infected me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFpp7IBLpD
— Just for one night you spent together.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIoLU11ccy0
I whisper this sentence as if to myself.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJgKnuNIoAm
— Not one night, just a short moment and a lack of condom and this is the result. A word of advice Meg : When you decide to do it with Chad, don't forget the condom otherwise you'll end up like me, a walking corpse ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdIBEYtJsZ5
— Jessy, stop saying that ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTjYKWIPVVG
— For what ? It's the truth ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJexZs69E4Y
— No, you are in good health, it doesn't even look like you have this virus so you have to be optimistic.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFFjcZJjCw
— As if that could cure me ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIafWJRe8dw
— Yes, it can help you hold on until the doctors find a cure.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjAjjcBqobx
I spoke more firmly than I wanted. Jessy looks at me, surprised.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5H3hryXspy
— You're right, you have to be positive and enjoy life, right ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtjWSHOZ1au
Suddenly his gaze changes, it becomes darker. He approaches me and takes me by the waist, holding me tightly against his body. I pull away from him immediately, not out of fear of illness, but as I would with any boy who did it this way.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpCJkhz34zJ
— Hey, weird ! You don't want to kiss me anymore ! This surprises me greatly ! Go find your fantastic and healthy boyfriend and leave me alone ! he shouts as he walks away.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡR4wsm531LO
— Jessy, you’re wrong, that’s not it ! Come back ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlyQe1zvpsQ
My words are lost in the silence.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuGiDbgRYU7
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK695KNK8mV
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI37P4rjx7h
The next morning before classes, which start later today, and where Jessy will certainly still be conspicuous by his absence, I am sitting in a corner of the snack bar. It’s a café where all the young people from high school like to meet for a drink, listen to music and chat. The room is quite large, with its light green imitation leather benches, its silver metal tables and its fifties decoration all in pink and blue. I found Chad there, who is having fun around a pinball machine with his friends a little further away, while I read Jessy's book. In fact, this is the third time I've devoured it since he lent it to me. The story of this man who fights alone against everyone to obtain his freedom after having been condemned in advance by public opinion now takes on a whole new meaning for me. Between these lines, it is Jessy’s life that I see. I can't stop thinking about him, and it drives me crazy. I'm dating Chad, I like Chad. So why do I only think about Jessy's lips on mine ? Why am I so worried about him ? How come I miss him so much ? I have already gone several days without seeing Chad, when he went on vacation with his parents, without ever feeling this emptiness in the pit of my heart. Yet I am in love with him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8i43SLQYRR
Do I like Chad ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZLynMczkKU
Ah, I'm going to go crazy if this continues ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtFmQGIG1V8
I raise my head and look at him, he looks at me and gives me a smile that I have trouble responding to, before he turns his attention back to his friends.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhby2UbkkzB
Why don't I feel anything when I look at it ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1dJUFnQau7
Putting my thoughts aside, I carefully dive back into my reading when Amy approaches me. That day, more than ever, I had no desire to talk to him. As I expected, she reported my comments to Chad and, as always, I had to justify myself. Luckily we have this talk to give, it gave me the perfect excuse.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9SaSgurYoU
Amy lifts the cover of my book and whispers : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwri2OJax3W
— Put down that book ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXXuNvL6Ede
— It’s a great book ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdMO8razncU
— I will never understand how you could want to read outside of class, there are so many things412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU2y6FF3iS4
much more exciting to do…412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxd0EYndBJ0
— Excuse me…412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMat76hBEXC
I get up quickly after seeing Jessy passing in the street.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjnmAMl4hnk
Hurriedly, I leave the café.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMSHwhltlyo
— Jessy ! Wait for me ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGPw5OQL5O9
As usual, he hears me, but continues on his way.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjmHw6oBFpu
— I have your book ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy5wUDfzZX4
This time, I manage to catch his attention, he stops on the sidewalk.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFixKrWn68Y
— What do you want from me ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVaypIQICss
— I just wanted to give that back to you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CWn6C47dh
I hand him his paperback, staring at him, my heart rate increasing.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRNP0QIQK8
— And then, I wanted us to talk.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvsT89RD8y
— I think we said everything. You should go back to your boyfriend.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ44j1R4RTJ7
— I don’t want to talk with Chad, but with you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGzGKudLD2V
— Thank you, that’s a pleasure, says a familiar voice behind me, making me jump.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwDcnW2W9fV
I quickly turn around to see my boyfriend.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpwq9GGvOov
— It's not what you think. But I need to talk to Jessy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZV41xh5MSG
— We have nothing to say to each other, he repeats.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmRxn1RxVZN
— Glad to hear you say that ! Stop hovering over my girlfriend ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPFoCCud4Um
— Hey, I’m here, Chad ! You don't have to speak on my behalf and even less tell me who I can talk to or not ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdniROCqHjl
— There, I agree with you, replies Jessy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡukcFwSwx4i
— We didn't ask you anything ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nNQ6zIJRr
— Leave him alone ! It’s me who wants to talk to him ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLLUQFFX4mD
— Are we having a threesome now ? Chad angrily grabs my arm.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhK2ktQzai6
He squeezes it tightly and takes me with him towards the snack bar.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2B115nKC8Y
— Let me go, I demand, trying to get out of his grip. You're ridiculous ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1FslfAtCm5
Chad tightens his grip further.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuO0r8RvwJA
— I just want to talk to you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzL7MwuXarB
— So let go of me, you’re hurting me ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3bixXiLVO0
— Let her go ! Jessy demands, interposing.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7oFkUYb1fu
— Don't get involved ! My boyfriend shouts, finally releasing my sore arm before pushing Jessy along the wall of the establishment.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYvZ6J6K54N
— Don’t hit me, Jessy warned.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhoH87r2SPV
— Ah, Monsieur gives more orders, says Chad angrily, putting his fist in the young man's stomach.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwgq2EpUNf
In shock, Jessy doubles over, dropping his book.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNjEwH1Y2oe
— Chad, stop ! I scream in the middle of the street.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAyMghYTBoW
Jessy, still hunched over, rushes at Chad and knocks him to the ground. He finds himself straddling him, trying to keep him on the ground while asking him to calm down. But you don't know Chad very well to think that he's going to let himself be controlled so easily. Soon they are rolling on the sidewalk, almost falling onto the road. Chad finds himself on top of Jessy and punches him in the stomach again. Then he stands up, waiting for Jessy to get up. When he gets back to his feet, he spreads his hands in a sign of appeasement, but Chad rushes at him again and hits him in the cheek.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO3jZfQ2tvs
— Chad ! Leave him ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqkGcoZ6aAU
Jessy picks up his book and walks away, but Chad comes at him again and hits him in the back. Jessy falls to his knees as Chad walks around to face him and grabs him by the collar of his T-shirt.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxuQ7ujx79r
No matter how much I beg him, Chad doesn't listen to me. I am about to betray my promise when, fortunately, two police officers intervene to separate them, surrounding them.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi1RCuBduM0
Jessy immediately regains his calm while Chad continues to struggle in order to continue the fight.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNj2EYi3yF
— What is happening here ? Asks the officer holding Jessy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9C1S0WMfpU
— This guy is hitting on my girlfriend, Chad shouts, still annoyed.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBolgIj3h22
— Anything ! I shout angrily. Jessy is a friend and there’s no way you’re going to forbid me from talking to him ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7HG33hwwoL
My boyfriend stares at me in astonishment while I think I see recognition in Jessy's eyes. This has the gift of calming Chad who lets his arms fall while blowing.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoYQV9OKyEc
— Can we let go of you ? Asks the second police officer.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn4liPvNFl5
Both boys nodded weakly.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbArZmuiMf
— It’s not over yet, Chad says, staring at Jessy, before heading back to the snack bar.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU64VVdqrC4
— It'll be OK ? Asks the other agent. He hurt you, do you want to go to the hospital ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGUsSx3uT8V
Jessy's complexion suddenly turned pale.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeBjAMS7gFP
— No, it’s okay.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSsQAqKmGx9
— I’ll take care of him, I intervene, moving closer to him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyHOm5gYek
With a knowing look, the two police officers walk away.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj3RSMADCwf
— Thank you, Jessy sighs.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9BBHmmHKml
— You seemed panicked at the idea of going to the hospital.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG4zDdrdYe7
— Yeah, I'm not a big fan of it. I've already just left my doctor's office, I'm not going to spend the rest of my day on a stretcher.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNyfbup3Y6
I pick up his book and give it back to him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLRKXtg5UtH
— Do you want to talk now ? I ask.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBjgsdGsqz
Jessy purses his lips.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡThNyKMkw6C
— You never give up ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2TaWVAI7o
— It depends on the subject but when it’s something important to me, no, I never give up.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd5ndwmJ3oC
Jessy seems touched by my words, he lowers his head and nods, pursing his lips.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjwNitBpdI
Without even asking him if he plans to go to class this morning, we head towards his house.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI04oPegmi9
— Did you like the book ? He finally asked after a long silence.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxNJK1QJr05
— I devoured it ! I'll have to buy a copy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2aldg11s1E
His smile is radiant when he tells me : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUPK73tJbGe
— I'm glad you liked it. You're the first person I've told about this.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1fOnSeqF3m
I take advantage of this confidence to try to learn more.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbBE6ddR4Ez
— You told me you went to the doctor, are you okay ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEgHDdeB0Bb
— My doctor told me that apart from being HIV positive, I am in great shape. She will do regular blood tests to monitor how the virus is progressing and has also encouraged me to join a support group of people who have the same problem as me, he tells me as he stops walking.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9iIJjEI21q
I meditate on his words for a few seconds, I know how important the subject is and I definitely don't want to focus on it.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4mb1qIKzMb
— I think you should try going to one of these meetings. After all, what are you risking ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOEpjX3ZbKs
He raises his face to the sky and observes a cloud which moves slowly, pushed by a light wind.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTnte5x9lGi
— Maybe you're right.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcqz1fhC5Q
Satisfied with his answer, I leave him in front of his house. As I head back home, I'm torn between the pleasure of being closer to Jessy and the anger that overcomes me when I think of Chad. I know this situation has gone on for too long.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQeAlO0gwVr
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC3tC7ORMsx
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVLR3MQRlMW
I had barely crossed the threshold of my house when my mother told me that Chad was waiting for me in the garden.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRHyJt05pvw
— Neither of you have been to class and Chad looks upset, she said. What's going on, Megan ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBNdiYSUsz
— I'm sorry, mom. I should have warned you. Chad and Jessy fought before we went to high school. Chad crossed the line, Jessy is hurt, and believe me, he really didn't need this.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDo8TOj0fPQ
My mother examines me carefully. I'm not going to lie, along the way I thought about how events unfolded and the more I think about it, the more my anger grows.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUSKb2WxGEc
— And this fight happened because of how you feel about Jessy ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZfs6IA4xmU
I agree, nodding my head.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSeYFfnBj4Q
— Now, do you know what you are doing ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJ79sR0kZh
— Yes, even if it is painful, I can no longer hide my face.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡezrHQYARpx
My mother gives a little knowing smile.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIuEyYPI4to
— GOOD. I don't like it when you skip school, but this time, I'm giving up. You will go to class this afternoon. In the meantime, go and sort this situation out. Good luck.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5y9g5qx5N4
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ05DM0GQZ2F
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGv8ZaEObM5
Chad is pacing around the yard when I open the back door of the house to join him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CeSuWRSvA
— Finally you're here ! Were you with him ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCkBXyLCSyx
The tone of his voice is icy. If he thinks I'm going to let him talk to me like that, he's sorely mistaken.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQnNj6m3hUp
— Remind me, when did we get married ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMIxzupjHwr
— Pardon ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdnNelP968G
— No, because the reason you're acting like an incredible asshole is because we've been married for years and you think I'm your property, right ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡclD5sx3291
Chad puts his hand to his forehead and bursts out into mirthless laughter.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmOjZJX6XJ
— I should have known you were going to take his side. Damn, Meg, you don't realize this guy is manipulating you to separate us ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3LVcZLbK0R
If until now I had managed to keep calm, his words made me lose all control.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB1V3663o53
— But you are completely delusional ! I'm not your thing, I'm free to do what I want ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlVe1Dn7uWc
— Like sleeping with him ! ? He writes to himself, clenching his fists.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqPJU2YUqzX
— I'm not going out with him ! I scream. And I'm not going out with you anymore ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMT1UCUdxtj
In shock, he takes two steps back.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9Ln1zHpJyx
— What ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVbxcKo6tM
— You understood me very well. It's over Chad.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMwMpBuDksl
— He succeeded then ? He wanted to separate us and you become his accomplice.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHitzfulh9j
This time it’s me who’s in shock. Where did he get such an idea ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ003vTQBQ2x
— No, but do you hear yourself ? I'm talking to you about us, not Jessy. He never even suggested that I break up with you, even after you hit him earlier.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPxhzvRaLAq
— You're not going to make me believe that it's enough for you to realize that you don't love me anymore.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ3GLgGq9eE
— Since we have been together, I have asked myself a lot of questions, I admit, going to sit down on a chair in the garden furniture. We have nothing in common. I know that I annoy you when I talk to you about literature and you annoy me when I try to share a moment with you and you are so captivated by a match on TV that you don't care.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5adhBpwqSW
Chad opens his mouth to respond but remains silent.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQxtbrjiMq
— You know I’m right, I insist calmly. You and I have known each other since we were kids, we have always been friends and I think we should have stayed that way.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBXAKh7YfKI
He takes a deep breath as his eyes water.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc0cy6dcljK
— So you don’t love me anymore ? he whispers.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsDdt2wTJsR
— Yes I love you but, contrary to what I thought, I realized that I am not in love with you. I love you as a friend, not as the man of my life.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡA9nyRDClX8
— And did you realize how you felt, before or after falling in love with Jessy ? He get angry again. It’s not over Meg ! I'm sure this guy is hiding something and trust me I'll find out what it is ! You will come back to me Meg ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ49asA6dGx3
— Chad ! Chad ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTFh8EUWyja
But it's too late, he's already slammed the door behind him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMt0TfQKoGS
I feel relieved to finally have been able to put into words what had bothered me since the beginning of our story, but I am also worried at the thought of Chad discovering Jessy's secret. I hope his threats are out of anger and that after he calms down he will realize their stupidity.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvcrmwIY8tr
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnv8gn6pBHq
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYwojjfbVHN
In the afternoon, I head back to school and smile as soon as I see Jessy arriving in the main hallway.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxWzVNcGccf
— You’ve decided to come back, I comment.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Hr7FNAqJT
— Yeah, I don’t want Chad to think he’s got the upper hand on me, he replies as we walk down the hall towards our class.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCbC3sDw2lB
— Good choice. But I need to talk to you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYUmMz33RVE
Without waiting, I pull him by his jacket away from the crowd of students and lead him into a corner near the boys' bathroom. I don't want anyone to hear our exchange.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRH2j4Fx6Pt
— What is happening ? He asks me, frowning.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4tiSuBhr7Z
— Chad was at my house when I got home.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF8jgyegUXi
— Okay, he says slowly.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqG9gOhFJAy
— I broke up with him, I admit abruptly.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1YRGy4emWE
His already piercing gaze locks on mine and never lets go. I wish I could drown in it but I only have a short time before the bell rings.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjbxakBjTJN
— He is very angry with you. He thinks you made me dump him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4F83jeVg7W
— I have never done that ! He writes to himself, shocked.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNJsjkSjc4S
— I know that perfectly, but I think he's looking for someone to blame for our breakup, when there's no one to blame. We're not meant for each other, that's all. Anyway, he told me you're hiding something and he's going to find out what it is. So be careful, okay ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS9VarmUhIi
— Yeah.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCmbaiFQtOo
He leans against the wall behind him and whispers, with tears in his eyes : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuQFsIS3AJm
— I don't want it to start again like in my old school, I couldn't stand it.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHZCge2u6S7
Seeing him abandon his armor in favor of sincerity upsets me beyond words. In these moments of fragility, I meet the real Jessy, not the one who takes a cold attitude to send me away but the sensitive boy who has suffered too much.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtahXn6sSwf
— That won’t happen, I reassure him. You are not alone here, I am your friend, I will always be here no matter what happens.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ16DoJ7P6Wt
— Thanks Meg. I thought about what you told me earlier, about the support group for HIV— positive people. I called my doctor to ask for the contact details of the center.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuLbwtCXAdI
— Great, I smile. It will help you to talk with people who have the same virus as you, you will certainly be able to help each other.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkzlbjt6dON
— I don’t really believe it, but I’m going to try to go to a meeting, he said, resuming a distant attitude. So maybe you'll let go of me a little ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6TvO8JbM3H
The bell which announces the resumption of classes interrupts our discussion.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSSwR6ODSbn
— Here, I said, handing him my notes. That way you'll be up to date on math.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWQDqf42sxR
— Thanks Megan. Sometimes it’s good to have you in my life ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpRKzllZ2vy
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBjJShCCgLy
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9qp3WQ0sdr
The last bell announcing the end of the day has barely sounded before a rumor invades the establishment. I'm putting my things in my locker when I hear whispers about Jessy. I turn to him who is standing a little further away in front of his locker. He lowers his head, shoulders hunched and lips pursed.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡglIDdUe7MV
Around us, the students murmur among themselves, stunned. At the time, AIDS was still a little— known disease; we were only in the early stages of medical research. There are lots of rumors about how and why this disease spreads, but the truth is that people still know very little about it. The only things we know for sure are that AIDS is scary and deadly. All eyes are fixed on Jessy, those who pass behind him move aside to make sure not to touch him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfXYHYlFOq
A student I vaguely know passes in front of me, I intercept him to ask him what this new rumor is.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUIcmpQq23q
— You are not aware ? Jessy Sutter, the new student, he has AIDS and what's more, he's homosexual ! He announces to me proudly. Above all, don't go near him, you never know.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzXlttPDIG8
I don't have time to send him away, he's already moved away.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3CZ0SCRtto
I look at Jessy again. He raises his head, fixes me with a burning look of anger before leaving the school as quickly as possible.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqPbArzq9u
I do not understand anything. How can everyone know ? One thing is certain, given Jessy's fury, he thinks I betrayed him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLwMrAVnG0C
I rush after him but when I get outside, he has already disappeared.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLXbqnsApo0
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm7PGlKGlsw
412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEH8n9uekGU
After looking for Jessy all over town for what seemed like hours, imagining him alone, depressed, I gathered up my courage and went to his house. The door opens to reveal his mother.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsx2UbjrcoT
— Hello, she greets me kindly.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDxQ4E78UP
From the first glance, I feel that she is an understanding woman. Her long blond hair and green eyes identical to those of her son reflect the gentleness that I also detect in Jessy.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSB9xnvDlB1
— Good morning. Is Jessy there ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUj8txyDGOV
— No. You're Megan, right ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ17VeiuuiDB
I nod in agreement.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWqNdIljcfA
— Jessy told me about you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJtPH7ZE8EG
— I've been looking for him everywhere since school ended, hasn't he come back ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgHzJ2XmCkX
— No, I have not seen it. He must be walking somewhere now that everyone knows Jessy is infected.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo38wHHMx6d
I look at her, surprised that she was able to guess, she continues : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm5JR5IqGyZ
— I received a call from the school. Apparently, parents of students learned of the rumor and immediately reported it to the school administration. I am called this evening to talk about my son's state of health and to see if he can continue his education in this establishment.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ76wZKNNj3h
— My God, this is nonsense ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡucvwGbNmsZ
— Unfortunately that's what happens when people know Jessy has AIDS. Everywhere he goes, he is rejected. This has happened before in Allentown, and it's happening again here. Everyone is afraid of being contaminated by simple contact, even my husband can't stand living under the same roof as him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8PACS7DgiT
Mrs. Sutter shakes her head as if her thoughts could evaporate with that gesture.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpruKMF4wg
— It is so unfair. I need to talk to him. Contrary to what he thinks, I did not betray him. I don't know how his secret was revealed. You don't know where he might be ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mp6a1EtTv
— He sometimes leaves alone for hours.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3SzIKkFTPt
— You are never afraid that he…412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVMRFQe86Fq
Mrs. Sutter looks at me as if to say, “Would that be worse than what awaits him ?”412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYnzUUzWHxk
I thank her and go home, totally dejected. Not only do all students now have to know about Jessy's condition, but even the administration is threatening not to keep him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3vCRs7mFnu
When I walk through the door of my house, night begins to fall. I hear my parents talking.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY0Iv1sOkVf
— Meg, it’s you ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd023d0EwL1
— Yes Dad.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCCusvkSpvU
— Can you come ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFAu7vl8mhr
I walk down the hallway and into the kitchen, where my parents are sitting around the table.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡieoFAa9Pni
— Nina told us what is being said around town about Jessy. Is it true ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7V1Oc5LzS1
I nod silently.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqawntBpD6
— How long have you known that ? Ask my mother.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2nx04MYNTS
— Since the other evening, when he stayed to eat. He admitted it to me when I took him home.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlKUxNNl62G
— You could have told us about it ! My father points out.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGfdRSgQUBd
— I told him I wouldn't tell anyone. I didn't want to break my word...412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEvgro8Ufz9
— Then how…412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJ43VKAVqx
— You can believe me mom, I keep asking myself that question. I only see one answer : Chad. This afternoon, he was very upset with Jessy and promised to find his secret. However, I don't know how he found out about it.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Im0YS8Egd
— Is it true that Chad fought with Jessy because you wanted to talk to him ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelT5snUdwj
I nod.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqnkhcJEr4w
— Chad wanted to force me into the snack bar, Jessy intervened to defend me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6EfgirfgSB
My response makes my father clench his fists and he says : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1J80DPHzRa
— He loses nothing by knowing what I think of his way of fighting like that and the rest.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZRcwQ1SHmt
— Are you aware that Mrs. Sutter has been summoned to high school ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu9LSobf1O9
In front of my parents' questioning looks, I tell them the words of Jessy's mother.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJNO0eZyfT
My mother makes a few phone calls and tells us : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJE2is4Zuwc
— The parents’ council is meeting this evening with the administration. Officially, they can't fire Jessy because he's sick, but they can send a report to the academy who will judge what to do in such a circumstance.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzrd1CEippa
Seeing my dismayed face, my father said to me : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFedmr8GCZ
— Don’t worry, darling. We will go to this meeting and we will support Ms. Sutter. It will be fine.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyz1SFqjBV
Less convinced than my father, I go into the garden and sit on the swing. Alone with my thoughts, I realize that I have suddenly aged. Before I met Jessy, I was a carefree kid with few worries, but now I see life differently. And to think that it’s only been ten days since Chad’s party. I wanted to become an adult, I'm served ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNdXuAnOV3f
Jessie, where are you ? I sigh, mulling over the latest events. I don't hear Nina open the back door.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwmkF48ht2w
— I was wondering where you were, she says, making me jump. The parents are out, Chad is there. He wants to see you.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGFuo5tgf1V
I sigh again. After what happened this afternoon, I still don't want to talk to him. But he doesn't wait to hear my opinion before following my sister who, feeling the storm brewing in the sky as much as with my ex-boyfriend, slips away.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4ZnwFVebW3
— I came to apologize for my behavior this morning. If I had known Jessy was gay, I wouldn't have been jealous of you talking to him.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGGu6uPuqlh
I huff, exasperated. Chad looks at me, I see the incomprehension on his face.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ95EtQoz5eF
— He is not homosexual. It was a girl who infected him ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4zF87uDLa3
— Sorry, but how could I have known ? You don't tell me anything anymore ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡazFf0xiKxc
— Sorry, but when someone tells me a secret, I do my best to keep it. Were you the one who revealed Jessy's illness to everyone ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAcaaTccbEB
His false innocent appearance betrays him even before he confesses. I think I see a little boy having done something stupid with his hands in his pants pockets, squirming for words. Even when we were children, he behaved this way. His attitude makes my anger explode.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFZ92UhIM2q
— It's about time you grew up, Chad ! You are so immature at times ! Do you realize that now everyone knows about their state of health ? That he might be kicked out of school ? That you're ruining his life ? But no, you don’t care as long as you make him pay for my breakup ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtKfpV5eA62
Annoyed, he lowers his head. This attitude annoys me even more.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOLaAc0oVXX
— I know, I screwed up. But if you had told me everything...412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFTzJgObJ2
I give him a murderous look. He's old enough to know how to behave.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3VCOByyJep
— Don’t ever ask me why I broke up with you again ! If you want to have an answer, look at yourself in the mirror... That is, if you can ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNALQ7SeIyd
— You don't even realize that since he arrived in town, you have completely ignored me ! Chad gets angry in turn.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpNBjSHHHEs
— It’s nothing to do with it ! I'm the guilty one, the one who understood that we are too different. Jessy had nothing to do with our relationship ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgbPyOMOUaN
— I know, he whispers. I heard him say it this afternoon.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdGKSYopBV
My eyes must be as round as saucers because Chad continues : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxjniUOd6kf
— I was behind the bathroom door when you were talking. I heard your conversation, that’s how I knew.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡieGY7AVhVs
— Oh my God ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXN5ZqRQTn
With tears in my eyes, I place my hands over my mouth.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyJiydaB5o
— I’m sorry Meg. I didn't want things to go this far.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhNmCpcXdEP
— And you rushed to repeat it to the whole school ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlQ0GmXSJTy
— I only told a few friends but it spread quickly. I really blame myself.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPx7bwTseLB
My eyes filled with tears, I whisper : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFUxrwZpEtN
— You can.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDeuXnLR3ed
— You’ll never want me again after this, will you ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBk3pSlG6FA
I shake my head.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcD8XOn0ysr
— You disappointed me a lot, Chad. You are still my friend but I no longer trust you. I'm sorry.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMEtTeGBSaR
— You don’t have to be, it’s my fault. I went way too far. The role of the jealous boyfriend doesn't work for me, he smiles sadly. Do you want us to remain friends ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJjDKpTWSz0
I nod in agreement. I know that after digesting these events, I will forgive him. I can't not have him in my life, he's been part of it for too long.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTDETsKJ4uy
Chad is about to enter the house again when, turning around, he says to me : 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2kb2eKGDy
— By the way, if you're looking for Jessy, it seems he hangs out near the bridge over the highway.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYkCzNDpCm
As soon as Chad leaves, I put on my black parka and head in the direction he told me. Night has now fallen, the air is heavy, the storm threatens to break out at any moment. I hurry the three kilometers, running half the way. I arrive on the bridge, out of breath, but happy to see Jessy there. It is a narrow bridge, reserved for pedestrians, it allows us to reach a corner of the forest which encircles the city. Jessy paces along the steel guardrail, watching the cars and trucks speeding by on the dual carriageway just below. His face is half lit by the streetlights placed all along the highway. He turns to me as I approach.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0icrzPKaxz
— What are you doing here ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyPSNaZLl9r
His tone is dry.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3fRvmwYM4T
— I've been looking for you for hours.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTIhjUvhQG
— Well, you found me. You see, I'm still alive, you can go back now.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡveRsddK1xp
— I'm sorry for what happened. I discussed it with Chad, he was the one who spread the rumor.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBoXWzLtyTS
— So you came so that I could forgive him ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC7XzVAtmY8
I look at him, incredulous; However, I have to admit that he is not entirely wrong. I wish we could all be friends, but I know that is a utopian vision of our friendship. However, even if she is often embarrassing for his interlocutors, I like Jessy's frankness.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡS70CkEpSYA
— I came because I'm afraid for you. It's late, come home with me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGZAHiSRjnn
Jessy looks at me with a disillusioned look but doesn't answer. He starts walking along the railing again, moving away from me. He seems hypnotized by the vehicles passing beneath our feet.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUnT1IXtuIM
— Ever since I’ve known you, you’ve spent your time moving away. Why are you running away from everyone ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7DycKQSn7L
I shout to cover the sound of a heavy truck passing below.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8YgliY0t0
Suddenly a lightning bolt tears through the sky. Jessy turns around angrily.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8jjOcqCBzz
— I'm not running away from anyone ! It's the others who never want me ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsz0PEDkgpm
He sits on the railing which is only a few centimeters wide, passes his legs over the air, wraps them around the metal bars. A new flash of lightning illuminates the sky. Despite the heaviness of the night, I tremble and move closer to him to hold him by the back of his jacket.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFjIpT43ZB
— Jessy, please. Come back ! You're scaring me ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLTDX2P6L3x
— I'm a danger to others, Meg ! I'm just on reprieve from this crap ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYHnptRLrI
The tone of his voice is no longer charged with anger, but full of despair. It squeezes my heart.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡT4uY09YqIn
— No ! You are not a risk to anyone ! And you are still here, alive and well ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHZZl5ZFndF
Thunder suddenly cracks, startling me. I move closer to him and tighten my grip.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtCZrJEjjW6
— Do you want to know what brought me here ? He says to me, letting go of the railing with his hands.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEplE6yujz7
He opens his arms wide, closes his eyes and falls forward, screaming in rage. Despite my efforts to hold him, his leather jacket slips through my fingers and I let go.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTgs5ragLOI
— Jessy, no ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxT7C8T20zD
I scream as loud as I can as I see him fall into the void.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkuieTqFoeA
I put my hands to my mouth while closing my eyes, not daring to open them because I am so sure that he has thrown himself under the wheels of the vehicles passing underneath. And then I suddenly realize that I care about him much more than I wanted to admit to myself until now. Yes, he's HIV positive, angry at the whole world and he spends a lot of time telling me off and yet, without knowing why yet, I can't help but think about him every minute. Suddenly, I hear him scream again at the same time as thunder cracks near us. I slowly open my eyes to see him hanging by his legs above the void. With a quick movement, he manages to stand up, then sit down again on the railing before coming back to my side. I admire his flexibility as I breathe with relief. He rushes straight towards me angrily.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94YQRL58Nn
— I'm going to die, Meg, my life expectancy is so low that it's not worth living ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKJurolyZY
His voice is thick with anger and despair.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn0d6iwjkIr
— No, I said, crying. You're not sick and you may never be sick, but you have to keep breathing, keep fighting this shit ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnYhOvdEy93
— To do what ? What awaits me in this cursed life ? Everyone will start turning their backs on me again, whispering in my way, being afraid of me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCq5EhPiKrq
Do you think that’s what it’s like to live ? 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2CiDfm65L9
He points to the highway.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfkIrM6DcZV
— AIDS has already made me fall into a void, vehicles have already crushed me. And none of your prayers or hopes can save me ! he shouts.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHN4dbXKe8K
My tears increase in the face of my helplessness. Jessy is going to die, it's just a matter of time and, in this second, I am fully aware of it.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvMnVzcjQu
— This virus is circulating inside me and nothing anyone says or does to me will make it go away ! I will have to live the little time I have left carrying this burden alone ! I can't, I can't take this anymore. Reliving what I experienced in Allentown is beyond my strength ! 412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIKFA0b39MJ
He lowers his arms, weariness written on each of his features. Cries that he has had to repress many times flood his face. I go to snuggle up against him, immediately his arms embrace me.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxxUD6CYmyn
— I’m here, you’re no longer alone. I'm here Jessy, I repeat to him several times, hoping that my words penetrate his bruised heart.412Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYHuwYwCkV
Above us the storm calms down as the rain unleashes, mixing our tears with those of the sky.
Penana
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